What is a Hunter Unit and Why is it Important?

Did you read the fine print on your siding’s warranty? If you examined the details, you likely noticed references to a Hunter unit, especially in the section about fading. The Hunter unit measures tiny differences in pigment to determine if a surface has faded. Siding manufacturers rely on this scale to decide whether fading falls within the expected range of deterioration.

Hunter Units and Fading in Siding

When you purchase new siding—particularly vinyl—you should consider its color and how it might change over time. Vinyl siding, a plastic product, reacts to sun exposure, which can cause discoloration. Darker vinyl siding, in particular, tends to fade more quickly in sun-drenched regions.

Siding companies anticipate some fading and include it in their product expectations. However, many siding warranties promise that their cladding will resist fading beyond a specific level. The Hunter unit serves as the standard to measure this fading and ensures siding performs within acceptable limits.

How Much Fade is Considered Allowable

The exact amount of fade your siding company allows as normal wear-and-tear depends on the company’s policies—that’s why it’s important to read your siding warranty in full before you make any purchases, especially if you’re looking for siding in a darker or richer tone. But siding technology has improved immensely in recent years, allowing siding companies to make bolder claims on the color durability of their products.

Some siding manufacturers, for instance, now use reflective technology in their vinyl siding that limits sun damage. Some companies now guarantee the color within a single Hunter unit for the first five years of the warranty, and within only two units after that. One unit is a virtually indistinguishable difference in color, so that’s not a significant amount at all.

Still, some may allow up to four units, so always read your warranty before you buy. Remember, vinyl siding can’t necessarily be painted when it’s up on your house, so if your siding fades drastically, you may have to have your house re-sided to fix the issue.

What Happens if My Siding Becomes Faded

If you notice that your siding looks abnormally faded, contact the manufacturer directly using the email address or other contact details provided in your warranty. The manufacturer typically initiates a claim and requests pictures, descriptions, and other details to support your case. They might even send a representative to your property for a closer inspection. The siding company then determines whether the fading qualifies as a manufacturing defect.

What to Do When Faded Siding Isn’t Covered by Your Warranty

Sometimes, replacing faded siding through your manufacturer’s protection plan isn’t possible. You might have misplaced your warranty, the siding could be discontinued, or a representative may have declared it ineligible. Whatever the case, you need to explore other solutions, and understanding Hunter units can help guide your options.

Start with a Thorough Cleaning

Before turning to drastic measures, clean your siding first. A simple wash can significantly improve its appearance, especially if dirt or mildew has built up. Manufacturers recommend mild cleaning solutions such as dish soap, water, and a soft-bristle brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and power washers, as they can damage the siding and impact its performance.

After cleaning, inspect the siding to see if the color improves. If grime covers the surface, you might notice a dramatic transformation. However, if cleaning doesn’t restore the color or falls short of expected Hunter unit thresholds, explore other options.

Use Commercial Products for Faded Siding

Several commercial solutions are available to clean and restore faded siding. These products often claim to remove oxidation and refresh vinyl surfaces. While they can provide some improvement, they may not always bring your siding within acceptable Hunter unit standards. Many professionals agree that painting is the most reliable way to address severe fading.

Can You Paint Vinyl Siding?

Painting vinyl siding is a viable option, but it requires careful planning. Choose a paint specifically designed for vinyl, and avoid darker colors than the original siding. Darker shades absorb more heat, leading to potential warping or melting. Use products formulated to accommodate vinyl’s expansion and contraction caused by temperature changes. Properly applied paint can restore your siding and help it meet Hunter unit expectations.

Prevent Fading with High-Quality Siding

The best way to prevent fading is to invest in high-quality siding. When purchasing, carefully review the manufacturer’s warranty and pay attention to the allowable Hunter units—a metric that measures color fading over time. Choosing durable materials and maintaining them properly ensures your siding remains vibrant and functional for years.

When dealing with siding, you shouldn’t have to settle for fading or expensive replacements. By understanding Hunter units and taking proactive steps, you can protect your investment and maintain its appearance.